Issues with combined compressors
Thread Content
I would like to ask why the fresh air coming from the combined compressor has to pass through the inlet valve first, before entering the inlet separator and then the cylinder. . In contrast, a reciprocating compressor first passes through an inlet separator before entering the cylinder via the inlet valve
The main difference between the two lies in the isolated maintenance of the compressor.
A combined compressor probably refers to a centrifugal compressor, right? In my opinion, the inlet separator of a centrifugal compressor must be placed behind the inlet valve; in fact, this separator not only serves to separate the fluids but also acts as a buffer. In centrifugal compressors, when the inlet flow rate drops suddenly, the gas in the buffer can compensate for a portion of the missing gas, thereby preventing surge in the unit and providing sufficient reaction time for the anti-surge control system; therefore, it is better for this separator to be as close as possible to the unit. In contrast, with reciprocating compressors, even if the inlet valve is closed, there is no risk of surging. And when a problem occurs in the unit, the inlet valve being located close to the unit makes it easy to isolate it for maintenance.